Resolution of dispute about May 2012 marriage conference booking

This news article was published under
the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

Joint statement in relation to the cancellation of Christian Concern’s booking for a conference on marriage on 23 May 2012.

Christian Concern, the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre (“the Centre”) and the Department for Communities and Local Government are pleased to announce that agreement has been reached in relation to the cancellation of Christian Concern’s booking for a conference on marriage on 23 May 2012.

The Centre regrets that its decision to cancel the contract caused Christian Concern, as well its invited speakers and delegates, disappointment and inconvenience.

The parties uphold the rights and freedoms of other members of society based on the principles of a democratic society.

The Centre accepts that some people have deeply held views about the nature of marriage, and that every individual has the freedom to express these in accordance with the law. The Centre also respects Christian Concern’s view that marriage should be between a man and a woman, and that view is sincerely held.

We live in a multi-faith society with a deep Christian ethos. The government reaffirms its commitment to the long-standing British liberties of freedom of religion, freedom of speech and freedom of association with mutual respect for the dignity and rights and freedoms of others, including the right of Christian Concern to debate their views.

The Centre confirms that there was no intention to discriminate against Christian Concern. Going forward, the Centre is happy to work closely with Christian Concern to stage a future event about marriage or other issue of interest.